By Nawaz Gohar ;  Pakistan Women asserted their complete authority in the opening ODI of the three-match series at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, dismantling Zimbabwe Women by a massive 168-run margin to claim an early 1-0 lead. On a pitch that rewarded disciplined stroke-play, the hosts produced a commanding all-round performance that never allowed the tourists a foothold in the contest.

Opting to bat first, Pakistan’s batting unit fired on all cylinders, posting a formidable 330-5. The foundation was laid by a composed partnership between Gull Feroza, who hit a solid 50 off 60 balls, and Sadaf Shamas, who anchored the innings with a brilliant 98 off 130 balls.

Though Shamas agonizingly fell two runs short of a century, her consistency set the stage for a late-order onslaught. Sidra Amin maintained the momentum with a blistering 67 off just 59 deliveries, before wicketkeeper-

batter Najiha Alvi provided the final flourish. Alvi’s unbeaten 56 off 30 balls—packed with eight boundaries and a six—propelled Pakistan past the 300-run mark, leaving Zimbabwe with a mountainous target. Precious Marange was the only bright spot for the visitors, claiming 3-39.

Facing a required run rate of over six, the Zimbabwean chase quickly unraveled. The visitors struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack, losing wickets at regular intervals. Despite a valiant, fighting 53 from Beloved Biza, the middle order failed to offer resistance. Kelis Ndhlovu provided a brief spark with 31, but the scoreboard pressure proved insurmountable.

The Pakistani bowlers were clinical, sharing the wickets with impressive synergy. Tasmia Rubab led the charge with a precise 2-21, while captain Fatima Sana and Syeda Aroob Shah mirrored her impact, each finishing with 2-28 and 2-38 respectively. The visitors were eventually bundled out for 162 in 36.4 overs, succumbing to the pressure of the steep chase.

This comprehensive win highlights the depth and tactical growth within the Pakistan squad. Having set the tone for the series with this emphatic result, the hosts will look to maintain this momentum when the two sides meet for the second ODI. For Zimbabwe, it is back to the drawing board to address their fragility against high-quality spin and pace.

Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the Zimbabwe women’s cricket team will make their first-ever tour of Pakistan to play a six-match white-ball series, comprising three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

All matches will be held at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. Zimbabwe are scheduled to arrive in the city on Wednesday, 29 April. The ODI leg forms part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025-29.

Pakistan currently sit fifth in the standings with two points, following their sole away series to date – three ODIs against South Africa in February and March this year.

The ODIs will take place on 3, 6 and 9 May, with each match starting at 3.30pm local time. The T20I series will follow at the same venue on 12, 14 and 15 May, with the first ball scheduled for 7.30pm.

The three T20Is will serve as crucial preparation for Pakistan ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be held in England and Wales from 12 June to 5 July.

Before the global tournament, Pakistan will also take part in a T20I tri-nation series in Ireland, featuring the hosts and the West Indies, with matches scheduled from 28 May to 4 June.

Series Schedule:
29 April – Zimbabwe arrive in Karachi
30 April – 2 May – Training sessions for both teams
3 May – 1st ODI
6 May – 2nd ODI
9 May – 3rd ODI
12 May – 1st T20I
14 May – 2nd T20I
15 May – 3rd T20I